Insurance Information
At this time, I am NOT in network with any insurance plans, but you may use your OUT OF NETWORK benefits with most major health insurance plans. Many people, however, prefer to pay for counseling out of pocket, rather than using insurance.
(See below)
At this time, I am NOT in network with any insurance plans, but you may use your OUT OF NETWORK benefits with most major health insurance plans. Many people, however, prefer to pay for counseling out of pocket, rather than using insurance.
(See below)
Payment & Financial Information
- Payment for services is due at the time of your session. Rates vary depending on session length; number of participants, i.e. individual versus family or couples counseling; and are subject to change. Please call to inquire about specifics.
- My auto-pay option makes paying a breeze. You simply enter your credit card information once in your secure, online portal, and that's it! Payments are deducted automatically after each session. I accept most major credit cards, including flex spending/HSA cards. I am also able to accept cash or check, if you prefer. (Please be aware that a nonrefundable fee of $45.00 will be charged for any payment returned for insufficient funds.)
- Your online portal also allows you instant access to all of your invoices and payment history, as well as "superbills" that you can easily print and submit to your insurance provider for out of network reimbursement. (Please see below for more information.)
- On a limited basis, I am able to reduce my fees on a sliding scale (up to 60%) for those with a financial hardship and no health insurance. If you feel you may qualify for this program, please discuss this with me, so that I may gather some financial information from you.
"Out of Pocket" versus "In Network"
Due to drastic changes made by insurance and managed care companies over the past several years, and in order to continue providing you with quality services, I am not able to be “In Network” with most insurance companies, at this time. Most health insurance plans have “Out of Network” benefits, and reimbursement rates can be comparable to your in-network benefits, but often with a separate deductible. I strongly encourage you to contact your insurance plan to find out about your out-of-network benefits, and how they can work for you!
Important things to consider when using insurance:
- Decisions about “medical necessity” and whether or not to pay any claims you submit for reimbursement are ultimately up to the insurance company. Managed care requires that you have a diagnosis of a specific mental health disorder, before paying for any treatment you receive, and not all reasons for coming to see a counselor qualify as a "disorder".
- Your insurance company, rather than you and your counselor, will dictate session length - with most only allowing 45-50 minute sessions - and will limit the total number of sessions you are allowed, and even the focus of your sessions.
- Insurance companies may also request access to any part of your confidential medical record, including assessments and psychotherapy notes. Once they obtain your record, your privacy and how this information may be used is in question, and is no longer in your, or your counselor’s, hands.
- Your diagnosis and medical record will likely be accessible to any future insurers and may be considered a “pre-existing condition” to determine your insurability and the cost of future premiums.
Advantages of paying for mental health services out of pocket, include:
- By law, any records of your treatment will be kept completely confidential. HIPAA regulations only allow insurance companies access to your files if you request payment of claims.
- The choice of whether to submit claims remains in your hands, whereas in-network providers are contractually obligated to take your insurance, even if you prefer not to involve your insurance company.
- You will have much more flexibility with regard to session length, and the duration and focus of your treatment. Treatment decisions will be made solely by you and by me, and not by your insurance company.
- When you come to my office, you will never be rushed or experience long wait times. More flexibility in scheduling means more time for me to help meet your individual needs.
Getting quality help when you need it is hard enough, and having to deal with the bureaucracy of insurance companies can be incredibly stressful at a time when you are most vulnerable. I am always committed to giving you the personal attention you deserve, which I am confident you will view as a worthwhile investment in your health and wellbeing!
You may visit CMS.gov No Surprises Act for more information about your rights.
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